Bangkok [Thailand], April 4: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision and policies have revitalized BIMSTEC, with India playing a key leadership role in advancing the group’s objectives. Through initiatives like the Neighbourhood First policy, Act East policy, MAHASAGAR vision, and India’s Indo-Pacific outlook, PM Modi has infused fresh energy and strategic direction into the regional grouping.

India’s commitment has helped strengthen BIMSTEC’s institutional framework. Although the BIMSTEC Secretariat existed earlier, real momentum came after the adoption of its charter in May 2024, which established its principles and structure. Indra Mani Pandey, a seasoned Indian diplomat, was appointed Secretary General, further energizing the group. India also contributed USD 1 million to enhance institutional capacity.

India has actively hosted key events like the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers Meeting in July 2024 and an informal meeting at the UN General Assembly in September 2024. Under Modi’s leadership, BIMSTEC’s work has expanded across seven key sectors, each led by a member nation. India leads the Security pillar, focusing on legal mechanisms to combat terrorism and transnational crime. Other areas include trade (Bangladesh), environment (Bhutan), agriculture (Myanmar), people-to-people ties (Nepal), technology (Sri Lanka), and connectivity (Thailand).

India has emphasized regional connectivity—physical, digital, and energy—and hosts the BIMSTEC Energy Centre in Bengaluru to work on a regional power grid aligned with the One World, One Sun, One Grid vision. India also hosts the BIMSTEC Centre for Weather and Climate in Noida and regularly organizes disaster management exercises. Efforts to foster cultural exchange and youth engagement have intensified, with events like the BIMSTEC Aquatic Championship, Business Summit, Youth Summit, Cultural Troupe at Bali Jatra, and Pavilion at Surajkund Mela. India also launched the BIMSTEC-India Marine Research Network in February 2024.

The momentum began with the 2016 BIMSTEC Leaders’ Retreat in Goa during the BRICS Summit. Since then, PM Modi has consistently prioritized regional cooperation in the Bay of Bengal. Two outcomes of the Goa Retreat—BIMSTEC Vision 2030 and the Eminent Persons Group report—are being presented in Bangkok, continuing to shape the group’s future.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from X@narendramodi.